Former Houston Oilers coach Bum Phillips is quoted as saying, ”There’s two kinds of coaches, them that’s fired and them that’s gonna be fired.” In a surprise move yesterday, Titans coach Jeff Fisher went from the second category to the first.

The Titans released a statement on their website Thursday evening saying, “The Tennessee Titans and Jeff Fisher have agreed to part ways and Fisher will no longer be the head coach of the team.” OK, the statement doesn’t call it a firing. It seems exactly like one though, with a negotiated severance package.

It was time for Fisher to go. Two months ago, I wrote of my fear that owner Bud Adams would keep both Fisher and Vince Young. It seemed more like an either/or situation then but I don’t believe anyone dreamed he would get rid of both men.

Things have gone downhill in the last two years. The 2008 Titans had what was considered by many to be the best team in the league but were one and done in the postseason.

Considered a favorite going into 2009, the Titans started out 0-6. The low point was a 59-point shellacking in New England, prompting Adams to say, “That is one of our problems, the coaching staff.”

The 2010 season was highlighted by losing eight of the last nine games.

The Titans haven’t won a playoff game since 2003.

Really, what could be expected in a lame duck season? Best to start afresh with a new coach, new staff, new quarterback and new players who fit what the new coach will want to do.

Jeff Fisher did some good, even great, things with the Titans and I thank him for that. But that was a long time ago and it’s time where it’s best for the team to move forward under new leadership.